Venice Skate Park
The current skate park on Venice Beach was opened in late 2009 but carries with it a rich history of over 50 years. A small group of skaters started building ramps and obstacles in an empty beach lot in the early 1970s. The park waxed and waned over the years, partly to do with the popularity of the sport doing the same. The park saw new life in the late 1980s and early 1990s with skaters like Tony Hawk helping to elevate skateboarding to mainstream recognition. As the sport grew and this particular location increased in skating influence, a massive 16,000 square foot park was constructed. Formally named the Dennis "Polar Bear" Agnew Memorial Skatepark and dubbed the birthplace of modern skateboarding, this collection of pools and obstacles is a visual statement that this unique culture still thrives.
The park is a hub of activity and spectators, alike. Even among the multitude of constant activity that is Venice Beach, the skate park draws a healthy share of attention. The concrete labyrinth was filled with skateboarders, roller skaters and roller bladers. All of them tend to show mutual respect and support for one another. I have observed several skate parks and some of them multiple times. It never ceases to impress me to see the level of camaraderie within the skate culture. Share. Take turns. Respect others. Cheer your peers. All of the these core values that adults attempt to instill in the young are alive and well within this community.
One of the youngest and definitely the smallest skater there seemed to be receiving the epitome of this encouraging atmosphere. Through a series of crashes, falls, cheers and challenges the crowd watched this kid finally land the trick at hand.
The concept of failing forward was put on full display as crashes were walked off, falls shaken off and unsuccessful attempts solicited advice from more experienced skaters.
The rails along the eastern edge of the park were crowded with those wanting to get a glimpse of the action. Locals and tourists alike gathered to watch the exhibition of balance, dexterity and grit of the participants. Whether you have ever had wheels under your feet or not, it is hard to look away. The crowd’s presence and cheers are sure to have a positive effect on the skaters. However, there is nothing to suggest that crowd cheers are the aim. Neither did it seem like it was the crowd’s intention to interfere.
My mind may be completely void of the experience of riding a board down an undefined grade or flying into the air hoping that I land on the four wheels with which I launched. But, that experience is not required to appreciate the craft. It is simply admirable feats that these people are performing, evidenced by the admirers gathered. When we watch someone doing something that takes such a combination of skill and practice, it is difficult to not show some form of respect.
If you are ever in the area, Venice Beach is definitely worth a stroll. And the skate park, a must see.
